Packing Essentials

The time has come! Tonight, I pulled out our biggest suitcase and began packing for our upcoming trip. We don’t actually leave until Thursday, but being I work the next two nights, I decided to get a head start. Plus, I think I am just anxious and excited to get away for a few days! I am down right sick of the snow and cold weather we keep having here in Minnesota (Spring is seriously nowhere to be found). Let’s just say that I am more than ready for this vacation.

Well, I’ll tell you right off the bat, I’m an over-packer. I always have been and I just can’t help it! I’ll pack like I’m going away for a month, even when it’s just for four days. It’s quite humorous actually, my husband could get by with a medium sized backpack for a week, while I have one large suitcase stuffed to the brim full. I always pack too much because I just have to bring those just in case items. For this trip, I am trying to stick to one suitcase for the both of us (wish me luck).

Oh! I just realized that I haven’t even said where I’m going yet! I’m on my way to Las Vegas, Nevada with my husband. We’re going to visit relatives that live just outside the city. It’s just a short four-day trip, but I am so looking forward to it. I am ready for sunshine and eighties (yum, right!?). We don’t have any specific plans yet as this isn’t a first time for either of us, but I’m sure we’ll end up going out a couple nights!

Back to packing…What types of clothing are in my suitcase this time?

T-shirts/Tank Tops/Dresses

Cardigan/Sweatshirt(s)

Jeans/Leggings/Capris/Shorts

Pajamas

Socks/Delicates

Sandals/Tennis shoes

Purse (I usually don’t carry it on because I always have a carry-on tote)

Accessories (necklaces/earrings)

Along with all the clothing, we mustn’t forget all the necessary toiletries:

We’re not done yet…on to all the other items I haul along, usually in my carry-on…

Phone & charger

Laptop

Camera

Planner/Crossword Book

Magazine(s) & Book

Snacks/Gum

Wallet

Neck Pillow

Mind you, this is basically all times two due to both mine and my husband’s items! It’s actually a LOT when you think about it. Plus, there’s always more miscellaneous items that I usually throw in last minute like tylenol, lipsticks, chapsticks, sunscreen, etc. I’m sure I’ll come up with plenty in the next couple days.

The most dreaded part? Unpacking. Being the procrastinator that I am, I put it off for as long as possible. Why? I have no idea. Typical me, I guess.

You should be impressed though that I have already packed almost everything! Usually I do it the night before and then end up feeling like I am forgetting everything.

Do you have any tips and/or tricks on packing lighter or tighter? Am I forgetting any essentials? Throw them at me!